II. PUBLIC EDUCATION INITIATIVES

FACES OF HOMELESSNESS: SPEAKERS’ BUREAU

“Faces of Homelessness” is one of the most visible public education and organizing tools of the National Coalition for the Homeless.  Its mission, in keeping with that of NCH, is to bring people together to identify issues to be tackled in the movement to end homelessness.  By discussing the stereotypes, myths, and misconceptions of homelessness, we can begin to move past our obstacles, get to the root causes of poverty, and figure out how we can prevent its worst outcomes. 

In addition to accomplishing this educational goal, participating in a Faces Panel empowers people who have experienced homelessness.  Members of the Speakers’ Bureau feel the satisfaction of making a difference in their own lives and the lives of others by helping people to understand a highly misunderstood situation.  Using their own experiences, speakers put a human “face” on homelessness and inspire individuals to become involved in the struggle to end homelessness on both the local and national level. 

Typically, the speakers’ bureau presents to high school and college students, civic organizations, religious groups, and at other special events. 

The standard presentation format includes a video about homelessness in America, up to three homeless or formerly homeless panelists, and a moderator to facilitate the discussion.  Participants are strongly encouraged to ask questions throughout and to engage in conversation. 

We can help anyone set up a “Faces of Homelessness” panel anywhere in the nation.  We provide assistance with everything from recruiting and training volunteers and facilitators to advertising and planning events.  For more information, contact Bureau director Michael O’Neill at 202-462-4822 x20.  You can also reach him via email at moneill@nationalhomeless.org.

HOMELESS EDUCATION CURRICULUM

Below is a synopsis* of the curriculum adopted by Miami-Dade County Public Schools.  It was created by Miami-Dade County Public Schools in collaboration with the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust to capture students’ attention and foster an appreciation of the challenges that homeless people face.

Pre-K and Kindergarten:

         Lesson Plan: An Understanding of Homelessness

To give children an understanding of the needs that we all have to be comfortable and comforted.  

Grades 1-3:

         Lesson Plan: An Understanding of Homelessness

Encourage predictions and assumptions from children about why people carry bags and suitcases.

Grades 4-5:

       Lesson Plan: A Car for a Home/Shelter in a Box

Encourage predictions and assumptions from children about why people sleep in boxes or on the street.  Provide students with an understanding of the extent of the problem of homelessness. 

Grades 6:

       Lesson Plan: Who are they/should we care/what does it mean?

Students will compare and contrast the definition of what it means to be homeless and identify strategies that can raise sensitivity for anyone in the group. 

Grades 7-8:

       Lesson Plan: What is Homelessness?

This lesson will provide students with an understanding of what homelessness is, who it can affect, and how they can make a difference.

Grades 9-12

       Lesson Plan: Homelessness: Fact or Myth

Students will examine their preconceived notions of the homeless, learn who the homeless are, understand philanthropic efforts to improve the conditions of homeless children, and explore ways to help the homeless. 

*Lesson plans and descriptions were taken directly from Project Upstart Homeless Children & Youth Program’s Homeless Education Curriculum Manual.